Jail term extended for man who stabbed ex-girlfriend in front of her son (6)

Jordan Taylor (26) was jailed for six years and nine months in November at Sheffield Crown Court — but following an appeal by the Crown Prosecution Service, his term was extended to nine years and eight months last week. 

Senior judges at London’s Appeal Court upheld a bid by Solicitor General, MP Michael Ellis QC, that the sentence was "unduly lenient".

After the hearing the Solicitor General said: “The increased sentence is appropriate in this case which involved a mother who had to undergo life-saving surgery and her brave young son who witnessed the attack.”

Taylor, formerly of Pike Road, Brinsworth, had previously pleaded guilty to wounding with intent and had also been given a ten-year restraining order.

He carried out the attack on his former partner after forcing his way into her home on May 27 last year.

The victim had been entertaining a family member and neighbour in the garden of her home, while her son slept inside on the sofa.

Taylor waited until the victim was alone in her home before entering through the back door. He then threatened the woman, and when she refused to give their relationship another chance, he picked up a kitchen knife and stabbed her in the stomach as her six-year-old son looked on.

The victim managed to call an ambulance while Taylor was still present. He then fled, taking the woman's phone with him. The victim’s son managed to fetch his aunt from a neighbour’s house to help.

The woman suffered a perforated bowel and had to undergo life-saving surgery.

Taylor was arrested two days after the attack.

Det Con Leanne Hearnshaw, from Rotherham’s protecting vulnerable people team, said: “Firstly, I want to recognise the bravery of the victim in this case. This has been a difficult investigation and lengthy court process. I would like to thank her, and her family, for their continued support and patience throughout.

“I also commend the courage of the victim’s six-year-old son. This little boy witnessed a horrific incident yet was able to think clearly enough to raise the alarm with a trusted neighbour and get help for his mum.

“This was a terrifying incident, nobody should ever be fearful of being attacked in their own home. I am glad the courts have recognised this and given a sentence which reflects the ordeal.

“To others who may be living in a physically violent or mentally abusive relationship, please do not suffer in silence. If you or anyone you know is suffering from domestic abuse, please tell someone and seek support. You can report domestic abuse by calling 101, or 999 if a crime is in progress or a life is at risk.”

For details of other support agencies in South Yorkshire, website https://www.southyorks.police.uk/find-out/crime-prevention-advice/domestic-abuse/